A: Remember to plant your trees in the late fall to winter, giving them the maximum amount of time to grow new roots before the hot, dry summer arrives. You will need to provide year around irrigation for new trees through the first few years.

Remove nursery stakes when planting. If the tree needs staking for protection, loosely stake as described on the International Society of Arboriculture website (http://www.treesaregood.org/treecare/tree_planting.aspx). Allow the tree to sway so it will develop a strong flare and caliper.

A tree is an investment in the future. Choose carefully, and learn how to plant and care for your developing tree.